Dialogue & Alliance: Summit 2022 and Leadership Conference: Toward a World Culture of Peace

New York, USA—In this latest issue of Dialogue & Alliance, we bring you the illuminating keynote addresses from the “Summit 2022 and Leadership Conference,” a remarkable gathering that took place in Seoul from August 11 to 15, 2022. The conference, centered on the theme “Toward a World Culture of Peace,” convened an impressive assembly of 1,000 world leaders from the 157 nations that hold diplomatic relations with either North or South Korea. Whether attending in person or virtually, these leaders came together to underscore their commitment to global peacebuilding, with a particular focus on the Korean Peninsula, and to delve into the essential topic of religious freedom as a universal human right.

As we all know, the Korean Peninsula has long been a flashpoint of international tension. However, the “Summit 2022 and Leadership Conference” demonstrated that there is hope and determination among leaders worldwide to steer the region and the world toward lasting peace. The presence of leaders from such a diverse array of nations exemplified the universal yearning for harmony and reconciliation. This historic gathering was a testament to the power of dialogue and cooperation in addressing complex global challenges.

The keynote addresses featured in this issue represent a wealth of insights and perspectives from leaders at the forefront of diplomacy, governance, and peace advocacy. Their words reflect not only the urgent need for peace on the Korean Peninsula but also the broader aspiration for a global culture of peace that transcends borders, ideologies, and conflicts. These addresses are not just speeches; they are a clarion call to action, reminding us that we all share a responsibility to contribute to a more peaceful world.

In addition to the enlightening keynote addresses, this issue brings you special briefings by the UPF fact-finding delegation, including Amb. Joseph DeTrani, former Special Envoy for Six Party Talks with North Korea, Adm. Harry Harris, former U.S. Ambassador to Korea, and Gen. Walter Sharp, USA (Ret), former Commander, United Nations Command. Their firsthand accounts and analyses provide invaluable context and depth to the discussions held during the conference. Furthermore, insights are printed from an array of international experts who have delved into the vital issue of religious freedom. Hon. Mike Pompeo, former U.S. Secretary of State, Hon. Newt Gingrich, former Speaker, U.S. House of Representatives, and others highlighted the significance of this fundamental human right and its role in promoting tolerance, understanding, and peaceful coexistence among diverse communities.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the participants, speakers, and contributors who made the “Summit 2022 and Leadership Conference” and this issue of Dialogue & Alliance possible. Together, we can make progress toward a more harmonious world, one marked by cooperation, understanding, and the universal respect for the rights and dignity of all individuals.

Thank you for joining us on this journey toward a world culture of peace. We invite you to immerse yourself in the rich content of this issue and to join the ongoing dialogue for a better tomorrow.

Thomas G. Walsh, Ph.D.
Executive Editor

To view the table of contents, please see below.

Dialogue & Alliance
Vol. 37 No. 1, Winter 2023
Summit 2022 and Leadership Conference:
Toward a World Culture of Peace